Dear Barack,

It must have been overwhelming to stand on the stage knowing that you would be the first ever black president of the USA. We have all seen the joy and celebration of your family, inspirational civil rights leaders and, it seems, a huge proportion of the free world. Congratulations.

I hope that the reality of your position will not disappoint you (or us!). For even presidential power is limited by the need to maintain the support of those with power and influence; the business community, judiciary, world leaders, voters and finally leaders of the military industrial complex that has been a sad reality of Republican mismanagement.

The need to compromise and negotiate to achieve any of your, as yet unknown, ‘Changes’, will limit what you can do. We do not yet know whether you will act solely in America’s domestic interests or try to repair the damage to America’s reputation abroad. It will be difficult. In the cold light of day, it is frightening for me to see that millions of your fellow countrymen voted for yet another republican presidency, albeit led by a much more capable and decent man. Surely this hails an uphill struggle for you. Not so hard to change a presidency by a small majority. Much harder to change the outlook and persuasions of nearly half the voting population! At least McCain was great enough a man to call for them to support you.

The sea change in American politics gives us hope for a better future. I believe that Your grandmother, who played such a huge part in making you the person that so many people feel that they can trust with their lives, moral leadership and future safety and prosperity, would be proud of you.

Standing on that stage I wonder whether your thoughts were tinged with terrible sadness that that great lady had not lived to witness the moment of certainty, the mandate of millions confirmed.

I think perhaps she chose to depart this life at that moment for a simple, wonderful reason; to get the best possible view, looking down upon you from the Gods to celebrate with us in a moment of triumph for America, the world, your family and you.

My thoughts are with you.